by Glory Lennon

Created on: April 28, 2009   Last Updated: April 29, 2009

If you have ever received a Helium Marketplace alert, you know how they frown upon the use of the Me-Myself-I, or the first person point of view when writing to those titles, unless specifically asked to do so. If you have had an article purchased at Helium Marketplace, however, you probably already know the value of using the second person point of view.

But if you don't know or understand exactly how to write in the second person point of view, you may need a refresher course on the three different points of view just for clarity's sake before we can get to the tips for writing in the second person.

The first person point of view or Me-Myself-I is precisely that, the writer speaking intimately about anything using an excessive amount of Me-Myself-I . The first person is best for a memoir, reflection, testimonial or the like which requires the personal touch. It, however, has been used in all forms of creative writing and even informative articles and debates on Helium. It is an extremely popular way of writing and the easiest, according to most people. An example of the first person is, "I wrote this article for Helium."

The third person point of view is the invisible narrator who tells the story in a detached sort of way. Writing in the third person is best for novels, short stories, satire, essays and poems. The third person can be used anywhere the first person can, though it might be a bit tricky to maintain in certain types of articles. An example of the third person is, "She wrote this article for Helium."

So, what is the second person point of view? It is merely writing in such a way as to conduct an intimate conversation between the writer and the reader, almost as if the reader is already your best friend or at least a nodding acquaintance. The person is usually spoken to directly and referred to as "you" throughout. As you can tell, if you've been paying attention, this article has been written in the second person. An example is, "You can tell this was written for Helium."

This is a very easy way to write as it is, for the most part, a conversation you are having with the reader. You can speak directly to him or her. You can admonish, advise, scold and lecture to your hearts content. You can speak in a joking manner, casual or serious. Whatever you like. Almost, just by the intimate way of speaking, you are creating an instant bond between you, the writer, and the reader. Whatever you say is aimed right at them, after all. Many prefer to read such a piece written in the second person as it is easy to understand as well. And in all truth what could be friendlier?

Having trouble writing in the second person point of view? Then just imagine you are writing to one person, say someone you know well, like a sister or a friend. Keep in mind to whom you are speaking while you write. Imagine and learn to anticipate any questions this person may ask about the subject, whatever that may be, and answer it in the same easy way you would if you were having a chat over a cup of coffee. That is the simplicity of writing in the second person. Everything is clear and easy for all concerned.

Depending on the type of writing you intend to do, a memoir, debate, short story or informative article for Helium Marketplace, will determine from which point of view you wish to proceed. If in doubt, second person is always a good, neutral choice and now that you know how friendly it truly is to use and to read, you'll love to experiment with it, won't you? Here's hoping you now have a clear understanding so you can use it well and to your and Helium's advantage. That was the point of explaining the second person point of view to you.

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